Tshwane licensing centres remain closed as deadline approaches
This as the NDSASA claimed that the department had decided to change its online booking system without consulting its stakeholder which resulted in driving schools not being able to reserve slots for the people under their schools.
The Tshwane licensing centres will remain closed this week due to the ongoing strike by driving schools.
It is yet unknown when the centers would be fully operational as the fast-approaching grace period set for March 31, 2022 is the last and final extension for motorists.
The deadline is for motorists with expiring motoring licences after a national Covid-19 lockdown was imposed on the country in 2020.
This led to licensing centres operations being hindered, resulting in a massive backlog of expired vehicle and driving licences, with Gauteng now being affected by strike action.
The National Driving Schools Association of South Africa (NDSASA) embarked on a strike to demand for the suspension of e-NaTIS online booking system that was allegedly failing people of Gauteng.
The association claimed that the department of transport had decided to change its online booking system without consulting its stakeholders which resulted in driving schools not being able to reserve slots for the people under their schools.
Tshwane MMC for roads and transport, Dikeledi Selowa said the driving licensing testing centres and motor vehicle registration offices remain closed due to the ongoing strike which began on February 24.
“Members of NDSASA have been protesting at various licensing centres throughout Gauteng, demanding that the online e-NaTIS booking system be cancelled,” said Selowa.
She said as a result of the violence shown by protestors to both staff and clients, Tshwane’s roads and transport department took a decision to cease operations to protect lives and infrastructure.
“The city is in the process of applying for a court interdict against the protesting NDSASA members to stop them from disrupting city operations.
“We will not tolerate lawlessness in Tshwane. Protesting driving schools should not be allowed to hold customers for ransom. I wish to convey my sincere apologies to customers who are inconvenienced by the interruptions.”
ALSO READ: Mandatory vaccines in South Africa: Can a blanket approach be justified?
The following licensing centres have been closed until further notice:
– Region 1: Mabopane and Akasia
– Region 2: Temba
– Region 4: Centurion
– Region 5: Rayton
– Region 6: Waltloo
– Region 7: Bronkhorstspruit
Road Traffic Management Corporation was aware of the disruptions to centres, spokesperson Simon Zwane said.
“We regrettably have taken note of the current spate of disruptions at our DLTC’s in Gauteng and wish to assure the public that we will do all in our power to protect and provide security for all members of the public visiting our centres.
“No violence and intimidation will be allowed and we plead with those who are orchestrating such actions to desist from such conduct.”
He said the RTMC remained available for any engagements and saw no reason for violence and inconvenience meted to innocent the public.
Do you have more information about the story?
Please send us an email to editorial@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram
